In a notable blow to the Sacramento Kings, their recent draft pick Devin Carter, selected 13th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder later this month.
For the Kings, this procedure couldn’t come at a more challenging time. The promising guard’s surgery will prevent him from taking part in the upcoming Summer League, a crucial period for rookies to showcase their skills and adapt to the NBA-level competition. More troubling, however, is the uncertainty surrounding Carter’s availability at the start of the next NBA season.
Carter's basketball journey has been nothing short of impressive. He began his collegiate career at South Carolina, where he quickly made a name for himself with his dynamic play. His standout freshman season garnered attention, but it was his transfer to Providence that allowed him to truly flourish. Last season, his remarkable performances earned him the prestigious title of Big East Player of the Year.
Devin Carter averaged an impressive 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Additionally, he demonstrated his shooting prowess by hitting 37.7% from beyond the arc. Standing at 6-foot-3, Carter is renowned more for his scoring ability than his playmaking skills commonly associated with point guards. His well-rounded game and strong performances made him a coveted prospect in this year’s draft.
Basketball indeed runs deep in Carter’s veins. His father, Anthony Carter, had a commendable 13-season career in the NBA, playing for six different teams. The elder Carter's time in the league wasn’t without its notable moments. In the summer of 2003, an error by Anthony’s agent led to his unplanned free agency. This error inadvertently provided the Miami Heat with the cap space to sign Lamar Odom. The signing of Odom later facilitated a trade that brought Shaquille O’Neal to Miami in 2004, a move pivotal to the Heat’s 2006 NBA Championship victory.
Despite the current setback, the prognosis for Devin Carter's recovery is optimistic. Although he will miss the Summer League and potentially the start of the season, it appears he will not be out for an extended period. For the Kings, who invested their 13th overall pick in Carter, this news is a small silver lining in an otherwise cloudy situation.
Carter’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, but his long-term potential remains highly promising. The Kings and their fans will be eager to see him return to the court and begin fulfilling his promise as a key player for the franchise.
This period of recovery will be a test of Carter’s resilience and determination, traits he has already exhibited throughout his basketball career. From his standout performances at Providence to his rise in the draft, Carter has shown he has the quality to overcome challenges and excel. The Kings will be hopeful that his recovery process will be smooth and that his impact on the team will be felt sooner rather than later.
As we await Devin Carter’s return, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on his journey thus far. His achievements in college basketball and his potential in the NBA are testaments to his talent and hard work. While the road to recovery might be tough, there's every reason to believe that Carter will come back stronger and ready to make his mark on the league.